Newcastle transfer news: PIF stance on Man Utd star amid budget claims

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Newcastle United have put Scott McTominay of Manchester United very high on their transfer shortlist. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund is also readying a big budget.

That is according to 90min, which reports that the PIF is ready to hand Newcastle manager Eddie Howe substantial funds. It is eager to spend significant amounts over the summer to strengthen a club that will compete in the Champions League for the first time in 20 years.

The PIF hopes that an influx of new sponsors and UEFA action next season makes the Toon an attractive destination. Newcastle are also looking to sign as many as six players over the next transfer window. Howe is eager to add to his ranks all across the St James’ Park pitch.

Newcastle are very interested in signing Scott McTominay

Newcastle have their eyes on signing two forwards, a holding midfielder, a left-back and a right-sided centre-back this summer. The Magpies would ideally like to bring in a left-sided winger despite having Joelinton, Anthony Gordon, Allan Saint-Maximin and Alexander Isak.

McTominay is one holding midfielder whom Newcastle admire and the Manchester United product sits very high on their transfer shortlist. Although the Sunday Mirror (09/04, p78) reported recently that Manchester United have slapped a £50m price tag on McTominay.

Even despite Red Devils manager Erik ten Hag only starting the 26-year-old in 10 of his 23 Premier League appearances this season. McTominay has also only played eight minutes since returning from an injury earlier in May. It had kept him out of six top-flight fixtures.

Manchester United can target a lofty fee for the midfielder

McTominay’s ability to help take Newcastle to the next level following any transfer from Manchester United has also been questioned. Simon Jordan branded the Scotland anchor as ‘average’ and noted on talkSPORT (22/03, 12:20): “He’s okay but he’s not a great player.”

Old Trafford chiefs can still demand a lofty fee for their academy graduate, nonetheless. He is under contract with the Red Devils until June 2025 and they have an option for a further year. So, the PIF may have to produce a big budget if Newcastle want McTominay’s transfer.